Murray River

Introducing Murray River

Australia’s greatest river meanders for 650km through SA. Tamed by weirs and locks, the river is the essence and sustenance for the irrigated oases of the Riverina as well as a Mecca for water-sports enthusiasts. The banks of this slow and sinuous river are lined with majestic, multihued river red gums. Under their hulking branches, home to noisy flocks of white corellas and pink-and-grey galahs, kangaroos graze then recline as the day warms up. Away from the riverbanks, lush green vineyards and orchards sip from thousands of kilometres of black irrigation pipes, and where the pipes stop, the green stops; beyond, the crisp and dry countryside stands in stark contrast. The towns are also improbably green, the well-watered median strips, parkland and domestic lawns and the bubbling fountains indicating a remarkable confidence in this river’s precious gift.

The Murray has a fascinating history. For thousands of years the river and its fish, birds and trees have provided for the indigenous Meru communities. The high, red cliffs conceal rock art and ancient gums carry the scars of traditional use. Before the advent of railways, the river was the trading and transport route for European settlers. Paddle steamers carried wool, wheat and supplies up and down the river from Murray Bridge as far as central Queensland along the Darling River tributary. Several of these stately shallow-draught vessels have been restored and you can relive the past on cruises of a few hours or several days.

Water-skiers, jet skiers, houseboats and other odd craft crowd the river during holiday times. If your idea of riverine serenity doesn’t include the roar of a V8 inboard or the whine of a jet ski then you should avoid the major towns and caravan parks during holidays and weekends.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009